Southern California is preparing for a wet holiday as a winter storm that already delivered measurable rain, flash-flood warnings, a tornado warning for the San Gabriel Valley, and evacuation orders for burn-scar residents continues to move through the region.
Winter Storm Overview
The storm that drenched the Southland has already prompted urgent alerts across the state. Residents in burn-scar areas received evacuation orders, while flash-flood warnings were issued in several counties. A tornado warning was also issued for the San Gabriel Valley, underscoring the intensity of the weather system.
Despite a brief lull overnight, the system is expected to ramp up again on Christmas Day, leaving many southern Californians with a soggy holiday.
Forecast Timeline for Christmas
The National Weather Service has mapped a detailed schedule for the storm’s progression on December 24, 2025. Below is the timeline that local residents can expect to see on their weather apps and news broadcasts:
- 4 a.m. Thursday – Scattered rain in Ventura County
- 6 a.m. Thursday – Scattered showers in Palmdale, Santa Clarita, and Los Angeles
- 10 a.m. Thursday – Heavier, more widespread rain in Ventura County across Ojai and Oxnard; scattered showers near the mountains and Orange County
- 12 p.m. Thursday – Heavier, more widespread rain in Santa Clarita, Palmdale, and Malibu
- 4 p.m. Thursday – Steady, widespread rain across Los Angeles County and the mountains
- 9 p.m. Thursday – Rain remains over LA County and begins to taper off Ventura County
- 12 a.m. Friday – Scattered rain across Ventura, LA, and Orange Counties
These updates are intended to help residents plan their day and keep an eye on evolving conditions.
Meteorologist Insights
NBC4 meteorologist Stephanie Olmo highlighted that the storm will not clear completely, even as it moves into the overnight hours:
> “We’ll have some dry spots, but of course, we’re not looking completely clear,” Olmo said. “We’ll have some areas still dealing with a bit of shower activity even as we head into the overnight hours.”
Adding to the picture, NBC4 meteorologist Kelley Moody emphasized the gradual nature of the storm’s spread:
> “It won’t be widespread in the sense that everyone is going to see rain at the same time, but more so that as this band we’re expecting to come through continues to move across the area, so everyone will eventually get a taste of things.”
These comments underline the importance of staying informed as the storm progresses.
Impact and Preparedness
The heavy downpour has already put communities from Altadena to Trabuco Creek to San Bernardino County on edge. Evacuation orders in burn-scar areas have been issued, and residents are advised to monitor local news for updates.
The video that aired during NBC4 News at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, captured the intensity of the rain and the urgency of the warnings. Viewers were shown how rapidly the storm’s reach is expanding and how the weather could affect transportation, outdoor plans, and daily routines.
What to Expect on Friday
The winter storm is slated to deliver a bit more wet weather on Friday before it begins to taper off. Residents should prepare for continued rainfall, especially in the areas listed in the forecast timeline, and remain alert for any new alerts that may be issued as the system weakens.
Key Takeaways
- The storm has already triggered flash-flood warnings, a tornado warning, and evacuation orders.
- Southern Californians should expect scattered and heavy rain throughout Christmas Day, with a brief lull overnight.
- Meteorologists emphasize that while some dry spots may appear, shower activity will persist.
- Communities from Altadena to San Bernardino County are on edge as the storm continues.
- Friday will bring additional wet weather before the system fades.
In summary, the winter storm’s trajectory and intensity mean that southern California residents need to stay vigilant, heed official warnings, and prepare for a rainy Christmas that could disrupt travel, outdoor events, and everyday life.
Closing
As the holiday approaches, the forecast paints a clear picture: a wet, potentially disruptive Christmas for many Southern Californians. By staying informed through trusted local news outlets and weather services, residents can navigate the storm’s challenges and keep their families safe.
